The Azzuri are itching close to Brazil with a 1-0 over Bulgaria on saturday, the Italians could become the first European nation to qualify for Brazil 2014 on Wednesday  Alberto Gilardino’s goal moved the Azzurri seven points clear at the top of Group B, but the national coach warned his side that they must do better if they are to win in Turin.

“We are one step away from the World Cup in Brazil,” he said. “We had to change things round, lost out in terms of stamina and therefore suffered. “We had particular trouble on corners and counter-attacks. We certainly can and must do better.” Italy will be hoping to build on its record of 13 goals during this qualifying campaign and it will fancy its chances against a Czech Republic side that conceded twice against Armenia.

Those two Armenian goals saw Michel Bilek’s side fall to a costly 2-1 defeat that could ruin its chances of reaching the World Cup. With Bulgaria losing, the Czechs missed their chance to move into second place and are now in a four-way fight to reach the playoffs.